At a national conference marking the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising, Panagyurishte Mayor Zhelyazko Gagov addressed attendees, urging Bulgarians to honor the legacy of the ordinary citizens who became national heroes. The event, organized by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) at the Panagyurishte History Museum, emphasized that the commemoration should inspire national unity and pride. Gagov noted that the timing of the anniversary, coinciding with an election campaign, prompted him to draw comparisons between contemporary political figures and those of the past, stating that such comparisons were “not in favour of our present day.” He argued that the commemoration should serve two purposes: solidifying its status as a truly national observance and helping the public reconnect with history as a source of national pride.
The mayor suggested that Bulgarians currently suffer from a “deficit of pride,” and the anniversary provides an opportunity to recall the achievements of their ancestors, reminding current generations that they share common roots. He contrasted the focus of modern youth on social media with the revolutionary youth of 1876, who were preparing for sacrifice. Gagov stressed that the figures of the uprising were not mythical characters but tangible individuals.
He called for the public to understand the heroes in human terms, stating, “They are us.” Ultimately, he urged Bulgarians to emulate the example set by those “ordinary people whom history made great.” This conference is part of BTA’s broader initiative commemorating the 150th anniversary of the April struggle.
Topics: #april #uprising #heroes
